A Journey of Gratitude: Bryan MacKay's Volunteer Story
Published Monday, April 28, 2025
Bryan MacKay has turned his gratitude into action by volunteering his time and organizing fundraisers to support cancer and cardiac care in Thunder Bay.
Bryan MacKay's journey with the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation (TBRHSF) began from a place of deep personal experience. In 2006, his son, Kol, was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor. For the next ten years, the Regional Cancer Centre at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) became a central part of their lives. “They always made him feel welcomed and cared for,” Bryan recalls. “They always addressed him by name with a big smile whenever he came in.”
After Kol's passing in 2016, Bryan wanted to find a meaningful way to express his gratitude for the care and support his family had received. With Kol's love of music in mind, he envisioned a fundraiser that would bring people together through song—spreading hope to those facing cancer. With the support of Diana Hannaford-Wilcox, choir director at St. Paul's United Church and a cancer survivor herself, the idea came to life. The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation staff embraced the concept, providing guidance and encouragement to make it a reality.
On May 5, 2018, Choirs for Hope took the stage, featuring seven choirs performing songs of hope and inspiration. The event provided a space to celebrate cancer survivors, honor those lost, and raise vital funds for the Regional Cancer Centre. Thanks to overwhelming community support, it raised over $10,000.
Inspired by the success of Choirs for Hope, Bryan returned to the Foundation the following year with another fundraising idea—this time in support of cardiac care. Having lost his father to a heart attack at the age of 63, he was passionate about advancing heart health initiatives. He saw an opportunity to connect Valentine's Day, a holiday symbolized by hearts, with a campaign to support cardiac care. When he pitched the idea of “Share a Heart” bouquets — floral arrangements sold by local florists with proceeds benefiting the Northern Cardiac Fund — the response was overwhelmingly positive. With the help of the Foundation and enthusiastic local businesses, the initiative launched in 2019, and to date, over 500 bouquets have been sold.
Bryan's passion for fundraising and event organizing was sparked early — he helped coordinate a fundraiser in high school and continued to plan events throughout his teaching career. These experiences gave him the confidence to turn ideas into reality. However, he never anticipated the profound impact volunteering would have on him. “Giving in itself is a rewarding experience,” he says. “But I've also learned that having the support and guidance of others can make a significant difference.”
Among his most cherished memories is witnessing the power of music during Choirs for Hope. “Hearing seven choirs come together to sing songs of hope and inspiration was truly a spiritual shower,” he reflects. The event reinforced his belief in the power of community and the importance of giving back.
While Bryan's role doesn't involve direct patient interaction, his experiences with the Foundation and hospital staff have deeply influenced him. “Their commitment to helping others — whether supporting my initiatives or providing care for my family — has been inspiring,” he says. “I remain grateful for the exceptional care available here in Thunder Bay.”
Now retired, Bryan has made volunteering a core part of his life. Each day, he reflects on the opportunity to make a difference in his community. His advice for those considering getting involved? “You don't have to do it alone. There are so many people willing to support you.” And the reward, he says, is simple: “The feeling of satisfaction you get from knowing you've helped someone — it's worth every effort.”
Looking ahead, Bryan remains committed to finding new ways to contribute. Whether through fundraising or community initiatives, one thing is certain — his journey of giving is far from over.